Swan Falls
British Columbia • Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
10.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
195 m
About Swan Falls
Swan Falls (coordinates 49.3672, -122.8523) is a small to moderate cascade in the Lower Mainland region near the Canada–U.S. border. The waterfall sits in a forested river/stream corridor and is best known locally rather than as a major tourist attraction. Flow and appearance can vary seasonally (higher in spring and after heavy rain; lower in late summer). Public access, trail conditions and exact ownership of surrounding land may vary, some approaching routes may use rough roads or follow unofficial footpaths. Visitors should confirm access and parking before travelling.
The Setting
Swan Falls sits at 332 metres within Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park, in the foothills of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Swan Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 66-101 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Sunshine Falls (12 m) lies 5.1 kilometres to the west. Also nearby: Noons Creek Falls (4 m, 6.3 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 10.0-km out-and-back trail gains 195 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Approaches to Swan Falls are often short but can include uneven, muddy or steep sections, informal or unmarked paths, and possible short scrambles down to the stream bank. Trail conditions may change after storms or forestry activity. There may be little to no official trail infrastructure (no boardwalks or railings). Use caution on wet rocks and near the water’s edge.
What to Expect
You should expect a forested, river or stream setting with a cascade or tiered drop. Vegetation typical of the Lower Mainland (mixed conifer-deciduous forest), mossy rocks and exposed roots on the approach. Water flow is seasonal, higher in spring and after heavy rains, lower in late summer. There may be limited signage and little visitor infrastructure. Cell coverage can be spotty in some valley or river-bottom areas.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Swan Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Swan Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (snowmelt and rainy season) or after heavy rains for peak flow and the most dramatic appearance. Summer may be drier with lower flow but warmer weather. Fall can offer colorful foliage; winter can create ice features but increases slip hazards. Always check local conditions before visiting.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Primary hazards: slippery and unstable rocks, steep or eroding banks, fast currents after rain or during spring melt, seasonal ice in winter, potentially limited cell reception, and the possibility of private property boundaries. Check recent trip reports and local signage for hazards or closures. If unfamiliar with the route, go with someone who knows the area or use a reliable map/GPS. In winter, icy conditions can make approaches hazardous; use traction devices as needed.
Current Water Conditions
0.5 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 25 years of record
1.41 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Vancouver hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
General access: use the supplied coordinates (49.3672, -122.8523) to navigate. The site is within the Lower Mainland near the Canada–U.S. border (distances supplied by the requester: ~17.6 miles from Vancouver, ~23.4 miles from Blaine, ~25.9 miles from Birch Bay). Expect a turn from a paved local road onto a smaller access road or short hiking path. Exact driving approach and legal access can vary; confirm with local maps, recent trip reports, or landowner / municipal sources before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be limited to a small roadside pullout or informal parking area. There may be no formal parking lot; some approaches could use gated or forestry roads. Park legally and avoid blocking private driveways or gates. If unsure, check local trail reports or municipal resources.
Elevation
332 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.367207° N, -122.852285° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm access and parking before you go, some approaches may cross private land or forestry roads. • Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear with good traction; expect mud and slippery rocks. • Stay back from the water’s edge; wet rocks can be deceptively slick and currents may be stronger than they appear. • Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. • If visiting in spring or after heavy rain, expect higher flows and avoid risky creek crossings. • Check recent trip reports or local hiking resources for up-to-date conditions and route suggestions.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 10.0 km and 195 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
North Twin Campground
3.5 km away
Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Vancouver, British Columbia
Dorr Fumarole Field
Dorr Fumarole Field reaches 194 degrees at 8,168 feet elevation on Mount Baker's active volcanic slopes, producing superheated ...
Sherman Crater Fumaroles
Sherman Crater Fumaroles register 266 degrees Fahrenheit at 9,463 feet elevation within the active volcanic crater atop Mount B...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Vancouver, British Columbia on SoakingSprings.
Explore British Columbia springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby communities and points of interest in the general region include Vancouver (to the west), Birch Bay and Blaine (to the south across the border) and other Lower Mainland parks and trails. Exact nearby official attractions depend on the precise local road used to access the site, check regional park maps and tourism sites for options.
Wildlife
Typical Lower Mainland wildlife: black-tailed deer, black bears (occasionally), coyotes, small mammals, and a variety of birds. Near streams, salmon runs may occur seasonally depending on the specific watershed. Be bear aware in spring–fall: store food securely and make noise on the trail.
Cities near Swan Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Swan Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.